is the Japanese form of the language of flowers. Hanakotoba is much like the Victorian language of flowers, floriography, but with the associated symbolism specific to Japanese history and culture. The language was meant to convey emotion and communicate directly to the recipient or viewer without needing the use of words.

Flowers and their meanings

Japanese name Romaji English Meaning Image Amaryllis Shy Anemone (white) Sincere Ambrosia Pious Aster tataricus Remembrance Azalea Patient, modest Bluebell Grateful Cactus Lust, sex Camellia (red) In love, perishing with grace Camellia (yellow) Longing Camellia (white) Waiting Fritillaria camschatcensis Love, curse Carnation Fascination, distinction, love Cherry blossom Kind, gentle, transience of life Chrysanthemum (yellow) Imperial Chrysanthemum (white) Truth Four-leaf clover Lucky Daffodil Respect Dahlia Good taste Daisy Faith Edelweiss Courage, power Erica Solitude Forget-me-not True love Freesia Childish, immature Gardenia Secret love Habenaria radiata Purity, delicateness, "My thoughts will follow you into your dreams." Hibiscus Gentle Honeysuckle Generous Hydrangea Pride Iris Good news, glad tidings, loyalty Arabian jasmine/Spanish jasmine, Jasmine Friendly, graceful Lavender Faithful Lily (white) Purity, chastity Lily of the Incas (Alstroemeria) Such strong connection that language is limited when trying to explain it Lily (Orange) Energy, joy of life, enthusiasm, vitality, comfort Lily of the Valley/Spider lily Sweet Tiger lily Hate, revenge Red spider lily Never to meet again, lost memory, abandonment Sunflower Respect, passionate love, radiance Lotus Far from the one he loves, purity, chastity Magnolia Natural Mistletoe/Holly Looking for love Morning glory Willful promises Narcissus Self-esteem Pansy Thoughtful, caring Peony Bravery Poppy (red) Fun-loving Poppy (white) Rejoice Poppy (yellow) Success Primrose Desperate Rose (red) Love, in love Rose (white) Innocence, silence, devotion Rose (yellow) Jealousy Rose (pink) Trust, happiness, confidence Sweet pea Goodbye Tulip (red) Fame, charity, trust Tulip (yellow) One-sided love Verbena Cooperative Violet Honesty Zinnia Loyalty

See also Language of flowers

Plant symbolism

References